Traversata del Formico

The Traversata del Formico is a challenging loop trail that is truly exciting thanks to the splendid views of the Conca della Montagnina.

Description:

From the car park at the end of the asphalted road (with parking to be paid by a “gratta&sosta” card purchasable from the coffee shops, tobacconists or from the Clusone Tourist Office), we soon reach the panoramic terrace of the Rifugio San Lucio. Take the path behind the little church of the same name (signposted Località Pianone – Pizzo Formico – Traversata del Formico) to the Baita Pianone (at 1142 metres).

Following the signs for Pizzo Formico – Path 508, continue to climb through the forest towards Pizzo Formico to reach Forcella Larga (past the Capanna Ilaria ruins at 1470 metres). From here, descend slightly to the left into the basin below then follow the small road that quite quickly leads to the Cappelletta dei Morti (at 1483 metres). Sticking to the left, keep following the path that – having touched the pass between Monte Fogarolo and the Montagnina – descends through the forest to a watering hole for animals in the alpine pasture.

Just above, we glimpse the Baita dell’Alpe Fogarolo. During the open season, this alpine hut offers tastings of cold meats and cheeses produced directly at the Baita (at 1390 metres). Continue along the downhill roadway (enjoying glimpses of Lake Iseo, the Bossico area and Monte Guglielmo) through meadows and woods to an altitude of 1166 metres, where you take the path to the left (signposted San Lucio) that leads to Cascina Succo Martino (at 1181 metres). Having passed this construction, following a stretch in the forest and a short ascent, return to the locality of Pianone, reaching the Baita Pianone once more. From here, retrace your steps back to San Lucio.

Interestingly, as you cross, you’ll enter the Conca della Montagnina (erroneously yet better known as Conca del Farno), characterised by being an area with a unique microclimate for the area due to the morphological conformation and geological structure where very cold temperatures are recorded, with values often around -30 °C in winter.

Details

• Starting point: Rifugio San Lucio car park
• Difficulty: difficult – hiking
• Difference in altitude: 550 metres
• Travel time: 4 hours
• Distance: 9.7 kilometres
• Notes: Looping itinerary, mountainous route